2020 Ram 1500 towing capacity
The 2020 Ram 1500 tows up to 12,750 lb with the 5.7L HEMI V8 eTorque. Below is every engine offered that year with its own rating, and the configuration each one requires.
Towing capacity by engine
| Engine | Power | Max towing | GCWR | Configuration required |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 3.6L Pentastar V6 eTorque | 305 hp / 269 lb-ft | 7,730 lb | 13,000 lb | Quad Cab 4x2, 3.21 axle |
| 5.7L HEMI V8 eTorque | 395 hp / 410 lb-ft | 12,750 lb | 18,000 lb | Quad Cab 4x2, 3.92 axle, Max Tow Package |
| 3.0L EcoDiesel V6 | 260 hp / 480 lb-ft | 12,560 lb | 17,700 lb | Quad Cab 4x2, 3.92 axle, Max Tow Package |
Source: Ram 2020 1500 Towing & Payload Chart.
What that actually means loaded
Towing the full 12,750 lb puts roughly 1,530 lb on the hitch at a typical 12% tongue weight. Against the 2020 Ram 1500's best-case payload of 2,300 lb, that leaves about 770 lb for passengers, fuel, gear and the weight-distributing hitch itself — which is why most half-tons run out of payload before they run out of towing capacity.
That calculation uses the maximum payload figure, which belongs to a stripped work-truck configuration. A loaded crew cab of the same model year typically carries several hundred pounds less. Read the yellow label in your door jamb — it gives your truck's real number, not the brochure's.
Common questions
How much can a 2020 Ram 1500 tow?
Up to 12,750 lb with the 5.7L HEMI V8 eTorque, configured as Quad Cab 4x2, 3.92 axle, Max Tow Package. The lowest-rated engine that year, the 3.6L Pentastar V6 eTorque, tows 7,730 lb. Your truck's own rating depends on cab, bed, drivetrain and axle ratio.
What is the payload of a 2020 Ram 1500?
Maximum payload for the 2020 Ram 1500 is 2,300 lb in its highest-payload configuration. That figure covers passengers, cargo and trailer tongue weight combined, so pulling a 12,750 lb trailer at 12% tongue weight uses about 1,530 lb of it before anyone gets in the truck.
Does a 2020 Ram 1500 need a tow package to reach its maximum?
Yes. Peak ratings assume the factory tow package — the upgraded hitch receiver, wiring, transmission cooling and in most cases a specific axle ratio. A truck without it is rated substantially lower even with the same engine.
Towing capacity lookup
Pick your truck and engine for max towing, payload and GCWR.
Full breakdown: 2020 Ram 1500 towing capacity
Other years and specs
Check your door jamb. The figures here are the maximum ratings for a properly equipped truck in its best towing configuration. Your specific truck's cab, bed, drivetrain, axle ratio and options all lower it. The certification label inside the driver's door and the owner's manual are the authority for your vehicle. Source: Ram 2020 1500 Towing & Payload Chart. Figures reviewed 10 August 2026.